The name Jewell is an English given name derived from the Old French word "juel" or "jouel", which means "jewel" or "gem". This word itself originated from the Latin word "jocale", meaning "plaything" or "toy". The name Jewell first emerged in medieval England, where it was initially used as a nickname for someone who was cherished or highly valued, like a precious jewel.

During the Middle Ages, the name Jewell appeared in various historical records and documents, often referring to individuals from noble or wealthy families. One of the earliest known bearers of this name was Jewell de Mohun, a 13th-century English noblewoman from the Mohun family of Somerset.

In the 16th century, the name Jewell gained popularity among the Puritans, who often chose biblical or virtue names for their children. The name Jewell was seen as a symbolic representation of purity, beauty, and value, reflecting the Puritan ideals of virtuous living.

One of the most notable historical figures with the name Jewell was John Jewell (1522-1571), an influential English Protestant bishop and theologian during the Reformation. He was a renowned preacher and author, known for his defense of the Church of England and his opposition to Roman Catholicism.

Another prominent bearer of this name was Jewell Plummer Cobb (1924-2017), an African-American biologist, cancer researcher, and academic administrator. She was the first African-American woman to receive a Ph.D. in zoology from the University of Chicago and made significant contributions to the field of cancer biology.

In literature, the name Jewell was used by American writer Zora Neale Hurston (1891-1960) for one of the characters in her novel "Their Eyes Were Watching God". The character Jewell Taylor was depicted as a strong-willed and independent woman, reflecting the symbolism of the name.

Other notable individuals with the name Jewell include Jewell Jackson McCabe (1879-1939), an African-American journalist and activist who advocated for women's rights and civil rights, and Jewell Parker Rhodes (born 1954), an American novelist and writer of children's literature.

While the name Jewell has maintained a consistent presence throughout history, it has never been among the most popular given names. However, its association with beauty, value, and purity has endured, making it a timeless and meaningful choice for parents seeking a name with a rich historical and symbolic significance.